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ConflictsMiddle East

Iran attacks send oil back above $100 as war widens

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David Shaw
March 12, 2026

Oil markets are jittery because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for a fifth of the world's oil shipments. Iran has announced the closure will continue, as leverage in its war with Israel and the US.

Iran's continued attacks on tankers and energy sites have largely shut the Strait of Hormuz, halting most oil shipments. Two tankers were struck in Iraqi waters as the US and Israel carried out new strikes on Iranian targets. Washington says naval escorts aren't yet possible, adding to market turmoil as Brent crude jumps above $100 despite major releases from global oil reserves.

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